Next, add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, and chicken broth to the pot. Give everything a good stir, and then bring it to a gentle boil. Once it’s bubbling away, I break the spaghetti in half and add it to the pot. Don’t be afraid to get in there and stir! Let the spaghetti cook in the sauce for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender, and the mixture is thick and hearty. The vibrant colors of the dish start to come together beautifully.
Once the noodles are cooked to your liking, reduce the heat and sprinkle in that luscious cheddar and Mexican blend cheese. Mix well until the cheese is beautifully melted and all components are combined into one glorious cheesy goodness. I can always tell this dish is ready when I see that gooey cheese stretching as I serve it up!
To finish, serve your Taco Spaghetti hot with optional toppings like a dollop of sour cream, fresh cilantro, or slices of avocado. Trust me; these additions take it over the top and make it look even more enticing. Enjoy!
Pro Tips for Best Results
I’ve tested this recipe a few ways to get it just right, and one thing I recommend is to use fresh ground meat rather than pre-packaged. The taste is so much better! I also found that using low-sodium chicken broth allows me to control the saltiness better.
Another tip: if you like things spicy, you can certainly add sliced jalapeños directly into the mix or top it off as a garnish. Trust me; a little heat goes a long way in enhancing flavors.
Lastly, if you have leftover Taco Spaghetti, don’t fret! This dish holds up beautifully in the fridge, and the flavors only get better as they sit. Just follow my storage tips below to ensure you’re savoring the best taste later on.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake I see when making Taco Spaghetti is overcooking the noodles. It’s important to keep an eye on the pasta while it cooks in the sauce, since it can go from perfectly al dente to mushy in a flash. I recommend checking it a minute or two before the time is up.
Another mishap people make is forgetting to stir occasionally. When the pasta is cooking, stirring helps prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot and ensures even cooking.
Using too much liquid can also lead to a soupy mess. Make sure to measure your chicken broth carefully; you can always add more if needed, but it’s harder to take some out once it’s in the pot! (See the next page below to continue…)